Photo by Brian Hoffman
The James River soccer teams had their hands full Monday as they took on Glenvar, perennial state contenders for both the boys and girls. Both teams were shut out, the boys at Glenvar and the girls in Springwood, but with much different margins of victory.
The boys fell 7-0 to the Highlanders but hung tough in the game. Goalie Knox Taylor made several spectacular saves and was busy all night as the three-time defending state champion Highlanders outshot River, 44-1.
The girls hosted undefeated Glenvar and gave the Highlanders all they could handle before falling 1-0. The game was scoreless at the half.
“The second half saw more attacking by the home team, but Maddie Frackelton was up to the task in the Glenvar goal. The Highlanders had several corner kicks, which had been a problem in their first meeting, but the Knights handled each one with confidence.
Midway through the half, the visitors were awarded a free kick from long range. The resulting kick and a tricky touch by Genna Shanks netted the first, and only, goal of the game. Rhaya Kitt had 22 saves for the Knights while Frackelton had 14 for the Highlanders.
The boys also tied Martinsville last week, 2-2. The first goal was scored by Clayton Bia and assisted by Brennen Monaghan. The second goal was scored by Wyatt Dewhirst. The girls’ game with Martinsville was postponed and rescheduled for May 13.
Both teams will take on Nelson County today with the boys at home and the girls in Lovingston.
